Courage and Sanctuary
Current events have a way of shining a spotlight on society. With everything that’s happening in the country right now, the spotlight is showing that we are all a work in progress, and we have much to do to improve.
We are all human beings, equal in every way. But while most of us know that racism is wrong, it still exists in many forms in our society. Speaking only for myself, I recognize I am a perpetual work in progress. I am a lifelong learner and hope to continue to grow from all of these experiences. In the case of working toward equality and justice for all, what’s happening now has helped me recognize that I can and need to do more. Part of my learning over the years has been examining my language - the importance of recognizing Black Lives Matter as well as the importance of embracing being antiracist - fighting against racism. Here's an excellent article from the National Museum of African American History and Culture that's helped me better understand how to talk about race.
With that said, our scheduled topic of the week, creating your sanctuary, might seem trivial. But it also feels appropriate to be thinking about a place to find peace right now – physically, mentally, and emotionally.
As caregivers, even in the best of times, we all need a safe space – a place to escape, recharge, and relax. My sanctuary is my garden. On most days, I can find time to be alone in the garden. It feels very therapeutic to dig in the dirt, and I get to use all of my senses while gardening. There’s something magical about watching things grow and morph before my eyes. My garden shows me that change is possible. Change is hard – and yet, change is good. My garden shows me HOPE.
What makes you feel safe and at peace? Your sanctuary can be a physical place, free from chaos, visually calming, and filled with things that bring you serenity. Or it can simply be a period of time when you focus only on yourself and your needs. Guided meditation, an imaginary location, or any peaceful place in your memory can serve as a mental sanctuary. You simply close your eyes and imagine yourself in this place, while also taking deep breaths and relaxing your muscles. For help with breathing meditation, check out this video put together by Polly Manke, our Breathing Meditation Creator and Facilitator.
To everyone reading this email – caregivers, volunteers, and all of our other supporters – I hope you can find some sanctuary with us.
And may we all have the courage to speak up, to do more, and in the process, make a better, more just, and more inclusive world to live in for all of us.